Daud Olatunji
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the Federal Government released over 4,000 inmates in a single day with the aim of decongesting Nigeria’s correctional facilities.
The minister disclosed this on Thursday,during the 5th Ministerial Press Briefing held in Abuja.
Tunji-Ojo said the gesture, not only addressed overcrowding but also resulted in substantial cost savings for the government.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the mass release, which constituted a five percent reduction in correctional center populations, primarily targeted detainees held for minor fines.
He added that when conducting a detailed analysis of cases, authorities identified numerous individuals whose prolonged incarceration stemmed from minor offenses, thus facilitating their swift release.
He said, “We decongested our correctional centres by five per cent last year,” Tunji-Ojo explained.
“Last year, just over 4,000 inmates were released in one day. All we did was conduct a detailed analysis and found that many inmates were there due to petty fines.
“This project allowed us to release over 4,082 inmates, saving the government N1bn year in feeding costs.”
Additionally, the Minister highlighted the proactive measures taken by the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad in combating illegal refining activities across Nigeria.
Throughout 2024, the squad dismantled 2,125 illegal refineries and oil dumps, underscoring a robust crackdown on illicit operations contributing to environmental degradation and economic sabotage.
“In 2024 alone, our Special Intelligence Squad seized close to 205 trucks laden with illegally refined petroleum products, reflecting our commitment to curbing criminal activities in the oil sector,” remarked Dr. Tunji-Ojo.
He added that the operations led to the arrest of over 700 suspects involved in these unlawful practices, with 345 convictions secured and 187 cases currently pending in court.
He said, “In 2024, the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad destroyed over 2,125 illegal refineries and oil dumps.
“Close to 205 trucks conveying illegally refined petroleum products have been impounded while more than 700 suspects and accomplices have been arrested.
“Notably, the corps have secured over 345 convictions while about 187 cases are still ongoing in the law court.”
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